Learn how an invitational family intervention works.
A family-led intervention is about getting your loved one to say “yes” to accepting help.
The intervention process also supports and guides the entire family system leading up to the intervention, during, and most importantly after your loved one is engaged in some form of treatment.
My team and I have been trained by some of the best in the field. Our interventions are based on research-backed practices, approached from a place of trust, empathy, and support.
When we work together, your intervention will be tailored to your specific circumstances.
However, I will still follow a proven process, which you can learn more about below.
The Evaluation Phase of the intervention process allows us to determine the best options for your situation.
After your initial consultation, my team and I will evaluate the circumstances of your loved one’s substance use and gain an understanding of your family system.
First we need to determine if an intervention is the best approach. If it isn’t, I’ll offer alternative solutions that are better suited to your needs.
Your family is unique. It is essential to take time to understand your situation and identify our best-suited team member for working with you and your loved one. This phase also gives you a chance to get to know us better before we hold the intervention.
During the Evaluation Phase, we also develop contingency plans in case your loved one is resistant to attending a Family Meeting, and arrange Safe Passage Transportation if necessary.
By the end of Evaluation Phase you will have a clear idea on how we will approach your loved one to introduce a path to recovery.
It’s critically important to approach an intervention with careful preparation.
Substance use may have caused a pattern of mistrust within the family system, and many individuals experiencing addiction feel resistance when their behaviour is addressed directly.
The Preparation Phase allows you to get comfortable with the conversation we are working towards having. We will determine the time and location of the intervention, and invite your loved one to attend the Family Meeting.
Invitation is a key step in initiating dialogue about substance use from a place of trust.
I will also organize and hold a pre-intervention consultation where we will review the entire intervention strategy with all involved.
This preliminary conversation allows us to:
Following our prepared plan, the Intervention Phase is where we address the negative impacts of your loved one consuming substances and broach the idea of recovery.
It is here, through a compassionate, facilitated process, that we are able to create the space for your loved one to take the critical leap towards saying “yes” to help. We will foster a sense of warmth and compassion as we broach what is inevitably a challenging conversation.
The day of the intervention is often daunting for everyone involved on both sides of the discussion. Fortunately, during the Preparation Phase we focused on building a well-structured environment for the intervention, which will help to lessen the tension.
If your loved one is hesitant, my team and I can shift our initial approach to a pre-prepared contingency plans.
Throughout the Intervention Phase and after, we are there to ensure you feel supported, encourage sharing, and help set any necessary boundaries.
The first 90 days following intervention or in-patient treatment represent the largest gap in dedicated services for those experiencing addiction or substance use.
Over years of experience, I have focused our efforts as a team to close this gap and provide meaningful, supportive, and effective Continuing Care Planning.
After the Intervention Phase, my team and I will continue to work closely with you and your family, as well as any doctors, counsellors, treatment staff, or support services involved in your loved one’s recovery journey.
When applicable, you will receive help to support your loved one’s reintegration or transition to:
Your Continuing Care Plan will be developed to meet your situation. But no matter what form it takes, the purpose is to provide ongoing support to you, your family, and your loved one through their recovery.
Based on how the Intervention Phase and the weeks immediately following unfold, we will adjust the Continuing Care Plan to meet the evolving needs of your family.
To help determine if a professionally-directed intervention is right for you, I offer a complimentary consultation call where we can talk and explore your options.
It’s natural to have lots of questions, and this easy consultation call is a great place to find answers. We’ll book a brief 15-20 minute call, with absolutely no pressure to make a decision.
Together, we’ll find a solution to get you and your loved one the help you need.
Did you know I can also work directly with your loved one? To learn more about Recovery Coaching or Sober Companionship, please visit my partner site at MichaelWalsh.com
RECOGNITION: I strive to create an inclusive environment for all, while also recognizing the historical and ongoing relationship between Indigenous communities and their lands. I acknowledge and respect the Indigenous peoples of the unceded and traditional territories on which our offices operate. In Victoria, we recognize the Lekwungen-speaking peoples, including the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. In Duncan, we acknowledge the Cowichan Tribes, which include Quw'utsun', Si'em Lelum, S'amuna', and Penelakut. In Vancouver, we honor the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
